Applicable to All Participants of MUN International

I. Preamble

MUN International (the “Organizing Committee”) is committed to fostering an academic environment that is intellectually rigorous, professionally respectful, and deeply rooted in the principles of international law and justice. This Code of Conduct establishes the expectations, responsibilities, and disciplinary framework for all participants of The Hague International Moot Court Competition.

By participating, individuals commit themselves to upholding the highest standards of conduct, reflective of the institutions being simulated and the dignity of international legal proceedings.

II. Scope of Application

This Code of Conduct shall apply to:

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1. All registered team members, including oralists and researchers;
   
   
2. All judges, evaluators, and panelists;
   
   
3. All members of the administrative and organizing staff;
   
   
4. All volunteers, observers, and guests participating in the Competition;
   
   
5. All individuals engaged in official communication or activities related to the Competition.

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This Code shall be binding from the date of official registration of the participating teams and individuals, and shall remain in effect until the formal conclusion of the event — including all preparatory sessions, workshops, online engagements, travel, excursions, and the safe return of all participants to Pakistan.

III. Core Values and Expectations

All participants must adhere to the following guiding principles:

1. Integrity and Academic Honesty

• All participants are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and academic honesty throughout the Competition.
• Any form of plagiarism, falsification of information, or misrepresentation of facts, sources, or arguments is strictly prohibited.
• Participants shall ensure that all contributions reflect their genuine efforts, and that any external input is consistent with the principles of fairness and transparency.

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2. Respect and Professionalism

• All participants must treat each other with respect, dignity, and fairness regardless of nationality, gender, race, religion, political belief, or academic background.
• Disrespectful gestures, disruptive conduct, or aggressive tactics—whether directed at judges, peers, or observers—are prohibited.

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3. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure

• Case materials, clarifications, or documents marked confidential must not be shared, reproduced, or cited outside the Competition context.
• Participants shall not impersonate or falsely claim affiliation with international bodies, courts, or legal institutions.

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4. Non-Discrimination and Inclusion

• The Competition maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of harassment, discrimination, or exclusionary behavior.
• This includes sexual harassment, verbal abuse, intimidation, or microaggressions during rounds, workshops, or social events.

IV. Accommodation Rules

All participants staying at accommodations arranged or covered by MUN International are expected to uphold the same standards of respect, professionalism, and decorum as required during Competition proceedings. This includes:

• Demonstrating courtesy and consideration toward fellow participants, members of the organizing committee, hotel or hostel staff, and any affiliated personnel;
• Refraining from excessive noise, disruptive behavior, or conduct that may disturb others;
• Adhering to all rules, curfews, or guidelines established by the accommodation provider or organizing committee.

A zero-tolerance policy applies to any form of misconduct, harassment, or disrespectful behavior within the accommodation premises or at any time during the participants’ stay in The Netherlands. Violations may result in immediate removal from the accommodation, disqualification from the Competition, a permanent ban from future MUN International events, or an action by the Dutch authorities, if deemed necessary.

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V. Courtroom Etiquette

All participants are expected to maintain professionalism and respect the formal setting of the Competition at all times.

1. Language and Address
All proceedings shall be conducted in English. Participants must use respectful and appropriate language throughout, both in oral and written submissions. Judges should be addressed formally, such as “Your Excellency,” or in accordance with the Bench’s preference.

2. Dress Code
Formal courtroom attire is mandatory for all participants during oral rounds.

3. Punctuality
Teams are required to arrive at the designated courtroom at least 20 minutes before the start of their scheduled rounds. Failure to adhere to the schedule may result in penalties, including possible disqualification, at the discretion of the Organizing Committee.

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VI. Communication and Technology

• The use of mobile phones, smart devices, or messaging platforms is prohibited during oral rounds, unless explicitly allowed by Court Officers for note referencing or emergencies.

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VII. Social Media Policy

• No participant may post live recordings, unapproved photos of judges, or sensitive content related to the case without prior permission.
• All posts related to the Competition must maintain decorum, accuracy, and respect for the simulated institutions.

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VIII. Misconduct and Disciplinary Action

Any of the following shall be deemed a breach of this Code:

• Disrupting proceedings;
• Plagiarism or fabrication of sources;
• Disrespect toward judges or other participants;
• Unauthorized distribution of materials;
• Violation of any other provisions of this Code.

Sanctions May Include:

• Verbal or written warnings;
• Reduction in scores or forfeiture of awards;
• Disqualification from one or more rounds;
• Full removal from the Competition without refund;
• Bans from future MUN International events.

All alleged breaches shall be reported to the Organising Committee, which shall conduct a prompt review and decide on appropriate action.

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IX. Grievance Mechanism

Participants may submit complaints or concerns in writing to the Organising Committee via the official communication channels. Anonymous reports may be considered but must include sufficient detail for review.

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X. Finality of Decisions

All decisions made by the Organising Committee on disciplinary matters are final and binding. No appeals shall lie beyond these determinations.

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XI. Acknowledgment of the Code

By registering for the Competition, each participant agrees to abide by this Code of Conduct in full. Breaches shall be interpreted strictly; with due regard to the standards of professionalism, honor of the simulated court and the integrity of the academic process.

MUN International is committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and overall comfort of all participants throughout the duration of the Competition. Every reasonable measure shall be taken to facilitate a smooth and enriching experience for all involved. These efforts shall be undertaken in accordance with, and subject to, the provisions set forth in this Code of Conduct.

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This document shall serve as the sole and binding Code of Conduct for all participants of The Hague International Moot Court Competition. It supersedes any prior guidelines or documents concerning participant conduct issued in relation to the Competition.